Why has this happened now?

Yvette Cooper criticized China for allegedly sending a spy who became close to Prince Andrew and met with former UK prime ministers. MPs threatened to reveal the spy's identity if the courts do not act. The UK government faces a complex situation balancing national security concerns with the need for economic cooperation with China. Full Article

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz expressed concern about ongoing threats to Israel from Syria despite the moderate tone of rebel leaders following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. The rebel leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, stated that Israel's attacks on Syria were unjustified, but emphasized a focus on rebuilding rather than engaging in new conflicts. Israel has taken military action in response to the threats, including moving into a demilitarized zone inside Syria near Mount Hermon. Full...

New Jersey State Sen. Jon Bramnick accuses the federal government of withholding information about mysterious drones in fear of public reaction, urging the Department of Defense to reveal the truth. Despite the FBI claiming no evidence of a threat, Bramnick questions why the government allows frustration to escalate without providing answers, prompting Gov. Hochul and President-elect Donald Trump to call for action, including shooting down drones. Full Article

At Damascus’ international airport, rebels who marched across Syria now lead security, addressing staff complaints and reassuring workers of a new path forward. In the aftermath of Assad’s fall, the transition has been surprisingly smooth, with minimal violence and looting contained. Despite challenges ahead, rebels aim to govern inclusively, though some Syrians remain wary of hardline Islamist factions within the insurgent forces. Full Article

Brussels sprouts are expected to be up to 25 percent larger this year, with an average size of 30mm in diameter compared to 24mm last year. Tesco's supplier, TH Clements, attributes the increase in size to improved growing conditions after a difficult harvest in 2023. By selecting hardier varieties and planting in optimal locations, the quality and taste of this year's crop have significantly improved, making sprout fans likely delighted with the larger, crunchier vegetables....

Former prisoner Nizar Zakka, leading Hostage Aid Worldwide, fears Bashar al-Assad is hiding captive journalist Austin Tice to secure his own future. Despite Assad's overthrow, Tice remains missing after being kidnapped in Syria in 2012. Zakka believes Tice may be held in a secret safehouse near Damascus and continues efforts to locate him through text message campaigns and televised appeals. Full Article